THE BEAUTY EXPERIENCE : RADICAL RECHARGE FACIAL

WHERE?

The Treatment Rooms located on the second floor of Liverpool's Harvey Nichols' Beauty Bazaar. In typical HN style the store have gone all out with the interior decor. The walls are peppered with beauty-themed quotes, Jo Malone candles flicker from every corner, and the rooms themselves are decorated in luxe Scandi-style furnishings, from Eames chairs to sheepskin rugs.

WHO?

Radical Skincare - the 'sisters on a mission' brand which is all about honest and effective skincare; based on clinically proven scientific research, paraben free, and suitable for even the most sensitive of skin types. Radical was originally formulated solely for the use of its founders - sisters Liz and Rachel Edlich, who amassed a wealth of knowledge regarding skin and wound repair after both working in the skincare industry for over 15 years. The brand is committed to an ethos of producing simple but high-quality products, formulated with only the best ingredients in order to deliver potent and powerful results.

WHAT?

A Radical Recharge Facial - an hour long facial involving a gentle cleansing massage, which drains the lymph nodes in order to remove toxins. This is followed by a chemical exfoliation before the application of an active mask, and an arm/hand massage. Post-mask removal multiple serums are layered beneath an SPF, and eye cream is applied.

THE PRODUCTS:

Hydrating Cleanser : This cleanser is incredibly light and gentle, one of few which I feel actually adds moisture to the skin during use. It's enriched with tangerine oil which, as well as being a natural antiseptic, calms inflammation, balances moisture levels, and has a refreshingly non-artifical citrus scent. Ideal if you have dry or sensitive skin, it's incredibly effective at removing makeup.

Exfoliating Pads : I'm already a devoted user of these pads [see here for a full review], they work miracles in fading pigmentation and blemish scars and I cannot recommend them enough if you're sensitive-skinned and usually wary of chemical exfoliants. I will repurchase them in a heartbeat.

Instant Revitalising Mask : Another [familiar] favourite, this active mask is ideal for brightening a dull complexion. There's something about using a product that you can actually feel working that is super satisfying [I describe the sensation as a popping candy effect].

Multi-Brightening Serum : A product dedicated to fading marks and promoting a more even skintone, this delicate serum acts like a peel, minus the harsh side-effects - gently exfoliating whilst simultaneously delivering a complex blend of antioxidants which prevent melanin production [the chemical behind pigmentation] and calms the skin.

Skin Perfecting Screen SPF30 : A 3-in-1 makeup/skincare hybrid which provides SPF protection, blurs imperfections, and provides a smooth matte base ideal for spring the skin ahead of makeup application. This product is a rarity in that [unlike most sunscreens] it offers SPF protection gentle enough to be used on the delicate eye area [often neglected during SPF application, but due to its delicacy, in need of high protection].

THE VERDICT:

Whether you're drained and rundown, battling through a particularly tough breakout, or simply in need of some luxe indulgence, a good facial is the tried and tested cure to all three. We're all more than aware of the benefits which a facial can provide for our skin, but if you find yourself more often than not leaving your appointments feeling more red/tight/itchy than glowing/radiant/revitalised, then this is the treatment for you.

Expect skin to feel deeply cleansed - minus the tight, stripped feeling. Whilst I would recommend this facial to anyone, I would especially recommend it those who tend to avoid professional facials for fear of aggravating a delicate complexion. This is sensitive skincare done right [and for that reason don't be put off by the marketing emphasis on anti-aging - at 22 this range has worked wonders on the aftermath of my hormonal acne].